There are tiny organisms called fungi that lived all around us.
We breathe in their spores every day, but in healthy people, fungi usually don’t cause any problems.
However, in people with weakened immune systems, fungi can cause dangerous infections that can even be deadly.
Recently, scientists have found that viral infections like influenza or SARS-CoV-2 can increase the risk of these dangerous fungal infections, even in healthy people.
In a new study, researchers at the University of Calgary and McGill University wanted to understand why this was happening and what could be done to stop it.
They discovered that two types of white blood cells, called neutrophils and a special type of B cells, normally work together to fight fungal infections.
However, viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza can stop the special B cells from doing their job, making it easier for the fungi to take hold.
The researchers worked with mice and human blood and tissue samples to understand this process.
They found that after a viral infection, neutrophils sensed a fungal infection and gathered nearby, but they weren’t able to destroy the fungi like they normally would.
The scientists found that the viral molecules were preventing the special B cells from cooperating with the neutrophils, making it harder for the body to fight off the fungi.
The researchers also found that there are therapies that can be used to replace the natural antibodies that are not being produced by the damaged B cells.
These therapies could help re-establish the neutrophils’ ability to fight fungal infections.
The researchers believe that these findings could lead to new diagnostic tests to predict who is at the highest risk for fungal infections and new treatments for these infections.
This research was inspired by a young man who died from an influenza-associated fungal infection that was resistant to all the therapies that were tried.
The scientists hope that their findings will help prevent other people from suffering the same fate.
In conclusion, researchers have discovered that viral infections like influenza and SARS-CoV-2 can increase the risk of dangerous fungal infections, even in healthy people.
They have also discovered that there are therapies that can be used to help the body fight off these infections. This research could lead to new diagnostic tests and treatments for fungal infections, helping to save lives in the future.
How to prevent fungal infections
Fungal infections can be difficult to prevent, but there are some steps that you can take to reduce your risk of getting an infection. Here are some tips to help prevent fungal infections:
Keep your skin clean and dry: Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so it’s important to keep your skin clean and dry. Be sure to dry your skin thoroughly after showering or swimming.
Wear clean clothes: Fungi can live in clothing, so it’s important to wear clean clothes and change them regularly. Be sure to wash your clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any fungi that may be present.
Avoid sharing personal items: Fungal infections can be spread through shared personal items like towels, combs, and brushes. Avoid sharing these items with others to reduce your risk of infection.
Practice good hygiene: Good hygiene can help prevent fungal infections. Be sure to wash your hands regularly, especially after touching animals or gardening.
Wear protective clothing: If you work in an environment where you are exposed to fungi, such as construction sites or farms, be sure to wear protective clothing to reduce your risk of infection.
Avoid walking barefoot in public places: Fungi can live in damp public places like locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. Wear sandals or flip-flops to protect your feet from coming into contact with the fungi.
Treat underlying health conditions: If you have an underlying health condition that puts you at risk for fungal infections, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system, be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to manage your condition.
By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of getting a fungal infection.
However, if you do develop symptoms of a fungal infection, such as itching, redness, or a rash, be sure to see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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The study was conducted by Nicole Sarden et al and published in Science Translational Medicine.
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